One of Equal Justice Under Law’s clients, Joyce Davis — a Detroit-area mother and grandmother who is living on a fixed income and battling cancer — is not allowed to visit her two sons in prison because of unpaid traffic tickets. She owes $1485 to the state. Last week, she told her story to The Marshall Project:

“Not being able to see my children, with all this hanging over me, is devastating. For one, you never know what will happen to me with my condition, and it would be devastating to not be with them, to not hold them close, ever again.”

After The Marshall Project story was posted, readers immediately started reaching out, asking how they could help, so Equal Justice Under Law organized the fundraising efforts. In less than 24 hours, supporters raised the funds to pay off all of Joyce’s debt, so she can start the process of reapplying for visitation. Joyce was overjoyed: “I love all of you! I haven’t seen my sons in nearly three years. That’s a blessing from God! Someone’s watching out for me down here and up there.”

Equal Justice Under Law is proud to be a part of Joyce’s reunion with her sons — and we will keep all of you updated as her story continues.